Fashion Design Contestants Beware

Wouldn't it be great to be discovered? Having your fashion design talents viewed as well as appreciated. Wow, what an amazing thrill that must be. Actually, an amazing moment for the "winner". But what happens to the other contestants that did not win. More importantly what happens with the artwork that they have submitted? Recently I viewed a rules regarding a design contest that I viewed online. In the rules, I noticed the following statement: "All entries become the exclusive property of sponsor and may not be returned or acknowledged" When they say that the design entry becomes the exclusive property of the sponsor, doesn't that mean you have just given them free artwork??? If a thousand fashion designers submit artwork, and only one prize is awarded... Doesn't that mean that the sponsor of the contest has obtained one thousand designs for free. If 10,000 designers enter, they have 10,000 free designs. Certainly, they have the cost of the prize to contend with. However, if a large number of contestants enter, that appears to be a rather good deal for the sponsor. Furthermore, even if you do manage to win the contest, you may no longer own the rights to your amazing creation. Granted, you may have your name in an article or something. Which may or may not help your career... My point is just make sure that you carefully read the rules of the contests that you wish to enter. Then you can make an informed decision if you decide to enter the contest. On the other side of the coin, entering a design contest is rather fun. Regardless of the fact that you are giving away design concepts, you may actually enjoy the thrill of the contest. If that is the case, you had fun and are therefore a winner... By the way, I think differently in terms of online contests then I would in regard to contests in which the fashion design contestants are on television. If you are on television it is my opinion that you can promote yourself and your brand. The fact that you are on TV for the world to see, allows "all" contestants to benefit. After all, the name of the game in fashion is self promotion (and brand promotion). The more visibility the better. However, be careful not to act like in idiot when you are on TV. That can back fire and negatively effect your career in fashion. Anyway, regardless if the contest is online or on television, designers should beware. Make sure to read all the rules and obligations. By the way, maybe the Fashion Industry Network should hold our own little contest...